Citizen Science and Cocktails

When researchers and the public work together, it's always a reason to celebrate. Join us at Citizen Science and Cocktails events to hear from researchers about their citizen science projects.Learn More >

New Exhibits Open!

L.A. is more wild than you think! Come celebrate the transformation of NHM into an indoor-outdoor Museum!
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Second Nature

Second Nature programming basks in nature, curiosity, and food! Formerly known as Sustainable Sundays, these talks and workshops tap into the exciting potential that NHM's new gardens offer. Are you craving urban survival skills? Want to know what some of those cool urban trees are called? Curious about pickling your own cucumbers?

We welcome you -- urban naturalist, foodie, master gardener, DIY tinkerer, and all around fun seeker!

Tortillas and the History of Corn Sunday: February 22, 1-3 pm

This workshop is sold out.

Mask Making with Paper Mache Sunday, March 29, 1-4 pm

Explore the ancient art of paper mache mask-making. Over the centuries paper mache masks have been used by a variety of cultures for occasions such as dance traditions, ceremonies, festivals, and theater. Drawing from the Museum's Grandes Maestros: Great Masters of Iberoamerican Folk Art exhibition, get inspired and join us to create your very own hand-crafted mask to take home.

Transformation of the Cacao Bean Saturday, April 18, 1-3 pm

Explore the cacao glyph from the classic to post-classic eras of Maya civilization! In this hands-on workshop we will learn how the cacao bean transforms into a chocolate beverage as well as into a finished bar. See and learn how to roast and de-shell the beans to get nibs. We will then take these cacao nibs and stone grind them on a metate and mano. With the finished product we will also delve into the flavorful spices that are used to create traditional drinking chocolate with chilies and cacao.

Tufa Planters Workshop Saturday, May 30, 1-3pm

Hypertufa is a fun process for creating "instant antiques." The finished planters will have the look of weathered, hand carved stone. Come and learn the basics of this easy, do-it-yourself project. Everyone in attendance will take home a bowl or a small trough that they have created. Once you master the techniques of making a hypertufa planter, the possibilities to express your own creativity with larger and more complex projects will be a snap.